Is is that Muirchu's works are the oldest extant, or that they, of any works that somehow exist, are the earliest date of composition?

I think I understand what you're asking, but you may find more information under "External Links and Sources," specifically footnote 5. —magda 20:21, 26 Jun 2005 (EDT)

Question

I think these articles needs imporvement. Instead of just listing infos about St. Patrick, why not explain why he held "orthodox" views? Aren't Irish people catholic today? this article should explain how the faith of the Irish people shifted.

The shift of Ireland from Orthodox to Roman Catholic took place about 700 years after St. Patrick's time. There was no such distinction in the 4th/5th century. Perhaps you'd be interested in working on a separate article on the History of Orthodoxy in Ireland? —Fr. Andrewtalkcontribs(THINK!) 05:58, 1 November 2005 (CST)